Hurricane Sandy-Damaged Midtown Crane Replaced

Hurricane Sandy-Damaged Midtown Crane Replaced

Posted on May 15, 2013 9:45am PDT

NY crane accident attorneys address importance of safety guidelines

The high winds of Hurricane Sandy left a construction crane hanging off
the top of a luxury high rise. When the crane partially collapsed, it’s
boom dangled above the city for a number of days. The area around the
crane was evacuated until it could be secured.

The New York Post reported that more than six months after the massive crane snapped, workers replaced
the boom on May 11. Residents of two nearby apartment buildings were again
evacuated because of the crane. This time the order was given as a precaution.

Common causes of construction crane accidents in New York

Each year, a number of workers are injured or killed in crane-related accidents
in New York. Knowing why crane accidents occur may help prevent future ones.

Reasons for crane accidents include:

Severe weather: Cranes can snap in high winds, especially if they are not positioned
correctly before a storm. They can cause other dangers, as well. Earthquakes
can pose risks, especially for a crane carrying a load.

Load weight: If the maximum weight limit of the crane is exceeded, it will be in danger
of either tipping, buckling, or the boom may collapse.

Contact with energized power lines: Electrocution from contact with overhead electrical wires is a leading
cause of crane-related accidents.

Blocking: One of the main causes of a crane collapse is improper blocking. Blocking
stabilizes and balances a load. Without this, a boom may not be able to
withstand the movement of an unbalanced load and can collapse. A crane
boom can also collapse if the load being picked up exceeds the crane’s
load maximum weight.

Improper crane maintenance and inspection: A number of cranes are not maintained properly nor inspected regularly
to ensure safe operation.

Insufficient employee training: Operators who do not have the skills and/or training in crane operation
and safety procedures may get involved in crane accidents. Employers should
make sure all operators are trained adequately and know how to handle
emergency situations.

Mechanical failure: Mechanical failure can occur when certain parts of the crane do not function
as they should.

By law, strict safety guidelines must be followed when working with cranes
on construction projects.